2008 Nissan 350Z vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 352 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan 350Z | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350Z | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1112 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 40 L |
